Welcome to the Ariège Pyrenees

THE DEPARTMENT OF ARIEGE nestles in the central Pyrenees, next to Andorra, its highest peaks visible from Toulouse. It is one of the most unspoiled regions of France, whose inhabitants have held fast to their traditions. The countryside is wild but easily accessible. Top grade trout streams rush down forested mountainsides into rivers where kayakers paddle. Waymarked walking trails lead to 3000 metres peaks where isards (chamois), marmots and even bears roam. Cyclists can take in a stage of the Tour de France, mountain bike down tracks or gently pedal in the valleys...

Numerous species of butterflies, orchids and raptors thrive here thanks to the endurance of ancient farming practices such as the transhumance, when cows, sheep and Mérens horses are led up to the high summer pastures.

Its many prehistoric caves, Cathar chateaux and WWII escape routes over the mountains are testament to the ways Ariège has served as a place of refuge and resistance throughout history.

Many thanks to these photographers

About us

From 2000 to the end of 2017 ariege.com was a site devoted to tourism in the department of Ariège. The small company that managed it closed on 31 December 2017 and 2018 will be a year of transition. Read more…